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March 31, 2011

HIS WORD FOR TODAY:

Luke 18.41

“What do you want Me to do for you?”

REFLECTING IN HIS WORD:

(Journey to the Cross, Day 24)

Jesus was ready to respond to the blind man of Jericho and minister to his need. When he heard that Jesus of Nazareth, the Son of David was near, he could not contain himself. Not even the urgings of those who were leading the procession to Jerusalem through Jericho could dissuade the man. His cry for God superseded the fanfare of the Jesus’ movement. When he received his healing he joined the people in their mighty praise of God for the wonders that had been done. But, this man was no different than others who cried out. He was overwhelmed by his distress and overcome by grace. In his joy would he have forgotten the urgency of the need for Jesus when someone else along the road cried out? Would he have sought to silence someone on the sidelines who was pleading for mercy and healing? As God’s mighty men we must not lose our perspective. Our healing and salvation is wonderful but there should be no fear that it is not ours. No one can steal it from us nor the thunder from our praise. Yet, our words are the invitations to others to recognize that Jesus is near. We should be quick to respond to their need and glad that they are calling out for him. As the mighty men continue their journey today they must be careful not to let their own agendas supersede God’s agenda which is to respond to those who cry out for Him and bring ministry to their need. He will use His mighty men just as He used Jesus to bring that peace into the world.

PRAYER CONCERNS (share your needs and others in the comment section so that God’s Mighty Men can join prayer forces as intercessors of faith, hope and love)

* For families and friends of those slain in Waco and those in critical care and those who believe
that violence is an answer to anger and hatred; and the threats it has brought into local schools
* For the containment of Ghadafi and the silence of weapons against his own people
* We continue to bear in mind the people of Japan still suffering the ravages of disaster of
earthquake, flood and nuclear contamination
* Preparation for the holiest of seasons and the readiness to celebrate the Key to the kingdom
leading to eternal life
* For those in Haiti still struggling to put their lives together and for those who are assisting
them
* For the cessation of violence in Mexico and God’s banner of love and protection over all the
people
* For all our troops stationed here and abroad defending the right of people to be free; especially
throughout the Middle East where the conflict is political and military but the solution remains
spiritual
* For the resolution of unrest in the Middle East with Israel, Iraq, Iran, Pakistan,
Afghanistan, in the Far East with North Korea, South Korea and North Africa
* For Mission Waco and the people of Djibouti

PRAYER CELEBRATIONS (where we see Him at work in the world):

* For health and healing throughout my family; especially Lisa, Michael, Mack, Gayle and now
myself facing surgery in tomorrow
* For restoration and wisdom

ABIDING IN HIS PRESENCE THROUGH PRAYER:

O Lord, may these ears remain in tune with Your Will so that the heart will not be closed to the needs of others which supersede our own. Thank you for helping these mighty men be strong enough to keep others first and before Your eye so they can experience the joy of their salvation. AMEN.

March 30, 2011

HIS WORD FOR TODAY:

Luke 18.31, 34b

“Jesus took the Twelve aside and told them, ‘We are going up to Jerusalem, and everything
that is written by the prophets concerning the Son of Man will be fulfilled.’ And they did
not know what He was talking about.”

REFLECTING IN HIS WORD:

(Journey to the Cross, Day 23)

We see, hear and understand what we want to see, hear and understand. How many times have we looked right at the truth and still denied its existence? Sometimes the news is so overwhelming that we just can’t seem to comprehend it, much less bear it. For the Twelve, the news of Jesus earthly demise was just something they couldn’t and wouldn’t accept. Here was a man so full of life, power and authority who would believe that soon He would be killed. Yes, we know He had enemies, including the Prince of Enemies. But, who would dare to do such a thing to someone who is so kind and good to others? But, the truth is no less confrontational for us when the call is for our own discipleship. What must die in us to truly receive the power and blessing of God’s Holy Spirit? It isn’t just a part of us that must be laid before the cross. It is all of us that must be given to God just as Christ was doing. All the good works and words fall silent if the willingness for sacrifice is absent. Jesus knew His sacrifice on earth was at hand. He had sacrificed His place in Heaven and all the rights and privileges it held to come to earth to offer His own life as an atonement for us. He sacrificed all but one- His relationship with God, His Father. As God’s mighty men continue their journey to Jerusalem they must face the possibility that sacrifice is required, even of one’s own life. Jesus taught the Twelve, “No greater love is there than this- a man will lay down His life for another.” We cannot deny the truth that our conversion and walk with Christ must be total and complete. Neither can we deny the possibility of our death living by faith. God’s mighty men cannot be as the Twelve were. They must be as the Twelve would become- no longer students but teachers of the truth concerning Jesus the Christ.

PRAYER CONCERNS (share your needs and others in the comment section so that God’s Mighty Men can join prayer forces as intercessors of faith, hope and love)

* For families and friends of those slain in Waco and those in critical care and those who believe
that violence is an answer to anger and hatred
* For the containment of Ghadafi and the silence of weapons against his own people
* We continue to bear in mind the people of Japan still suffering the ravages of disaster of
earthquake, flood and nuclear contamination
* Preparation for the holiest of seasons and the readiness to celebrate the Key to the kingdom
leading to eternal life
* For those in Haiti still struggling to put their lives together and for those who are assisting
them
* For the cessation of violence in Mexico and God’s banner of love and protection over all the
people
* For all our troops stationed here and abroad defending the right of people to be free; especially
throughout the Middle East where the conflict is political and military but the solution remains
spiritual
* For the resolution of unrest in the Middle East with Israel, Iraq, Iran, Pakistan,
Afghanistan, in the Far East with North Korea, South Korea and North Africa
* For Mission Waco and the people of Denmark

PRAYER CELEBRATIONS (where we see Him at work in the world):

* For health and healing throughout my family; especially Lisa, Michael, Mack, Gayle and now
myself facing surgery in two days
* For calm and productivity at work; maintaining focus

ABIDING IN HIS PRESENCE THROUGH PRAYER:

O Lord, You have not denied us the blessing of Your Spirit. Neither will these mighty men of Yours deny the truth of that blessing which is theirs through Christ Jesus their Lord. Enrich their walk today with the opportunities to share in that truth so that more may come to know the joy of their salvation. AMEN.

March 29, 2011

HIS WORD FOR TODAY:

Luke 18.17

“I tell you the truth, anyone who will not receive the Kingdom of God just as a little child will
never enter it.”

REFLECTING IN HIS WORD:

(Journey to the Cross, Day 22)

The Kingdom of God belongs to everyone. The rights, privileges and blessings of the Kingdom of God are given to those who believe and acknowledge that Jesus Christ is Lord. Does this mean that everyone understands what to do with it? No, and that is the course of discipleship. As the disciples made their journey to Jerusalem with Jesus they were still learning about this newfound opportunity granted to them as followers of Christ. One day a group of parents and caregivers approached the Jerusalem caravan. They brought babies with them so that Jesus could bless them for their future. In Jesus’ eyes it may have brought to mind the story His mother told Him of His own blessing when they took Him into Jerusalem to be blessed. Simeon, who was righteous and devout according to Luke, was waiting for the consolation of Israel. When he saw Mary and Joseph and the baby Jesus he blessed them because he was full of the Holy Spirit. He saw their future in their own hands. Now Jesus saw the future of Israel in the hands of parents who believed that He was the ultimate blessing. The disciples, whatever their agenda may have been on that day, did not see things as Jesus did. But, Jesus may have seen and wanted them to see that the future of God’s people on earth was in their hands as well. Instead of turning people away, even babies, was a denial of blessings. That would have been the same message the Pharisees and teachers of the Law were sending. Only the privileged and special, only the worthy and acceptable, were to be allowed the opportunity to know their future. Jesus rebuked the disciples and declared that anyone who would not receive even parents and babies into the presence of God cannot know the fullness of the Kingdom He is offering. (I guess we might want to think about that the next time a baby cries during praise and worship. Where do they belong in times like that? Jesus said “make every effort to ensure they are here with me.”

PRAYER CONCERNS (share your needs and others in the comment section so that God’s Mighty Men can join prayer forces as intercessors of faith, hope and love)

* For the people of Benghazi and Libya whose desire for freedom from Ghadafi has led to
“cease-fire” warfare while the U.N. has declared a no-fly zone meant for a prelude to peace
but could be seen as the prelude to U.N. nations intervening in this civil war
* We continue to bear in mind the people of Japan still suffering the ravages of disaster of
earthquake, flood and nuclear contamination amidst the rumblings of yet another earthquake
* Preparation for the holiest of seasons and the readiness to celebrate the Key to the kingdom
leading to eternal life
* For those in Haiti still struggling to put their lives together and for those who are assisting
them
* For the cessation of violence in Mexico and God’s banner of love and protection over all the
people
* For all our troops stationed here and abroad defending the right of people to be free; especially
throughout the Middle East where the conflict is political and military but the solution remains
spiritual
* For the resolution of unrest in the Middle East with Israel, Iraq, Iran, Pakistan,
Afghanistan, in the Far East with North Korea and South Korea and now across North Africa
from Egypt to Libya to Bahrain
* For Mission Waco and the people of Czech Republic

PRAYER CELEBRATIONS (where we see Him at work in the world):

* For health and healing throughout my family; especially Lisa, Michael, Mack, Gayle and now
myself facing surgery in four days
* For a painless day

ABIDING IN HIS PRESENCE THROUGH PRAYER:

O Lord, may the arms and minds and hearts of these mighty men of Yours be open and receptive to all those who are seeking the blessing of Your Kingdom. Let none be turned away. May every effort to open the doors of opportunity so that Your children may come in be successful in bringing glory to Your Name and blessing to Your people. AMEN.

March 28, 2011

HIS WORD FOR TODAY:

Luke 17.21

“Nor will people say, ‘Here it is,’ or ‘There it is,’ because the Kingdom of God is within
you.”

REFLECTING IN HIS WORD:

(Journey to the Cross, Day 21)

“On the alert” is where each one of God’s mighty men must be. Each one must stand ready to serve and obey the call whether it is to a neighbor in trouble or to Christ when He returns. In the station of actively pursuing the demonstration of being a citizen of the Kingdom is the challenge which faces all those on the journey to Jerusalem. God’s mighty man must not conduct his life as if the promise awaits some future date. Jesus declares that the Kingdom which we all seek is already within us. That means the presence of God, the indwelling of His Holy Spirit, the communion with the Savior, the peace that surpasses all understanding and the collection of the joy of all the saints resides inside the heart, mind and soul of those who have accepted Jesus as the Christ. In one way of understanding this consider that the means of perfection comes in the forgiveness of God through Jesus Christ. It is only by the saving grace and the anointing of His blood over us that we are made fit for the Kingdom. These are the gifts of mercy which each believer has already received upon the confession of their sinful nature and the profession of faith in Christ. With the future secure the only concern left is how best to walk in that security. The walk is living a prepared life and preparing that life daily to remain fit in the Kingdom. Acts of charity, healing and reconciliation demonstrates the faith commitment of God’s mighty men. They will not wait for the coming of Christ passively. They will pursue the joy of the kingdom with every step and every breath. Through their words and works others will be introduced to that same joy which is alive in the believer and will become alive in them. It is a great awakening and revival akin to the dead bones vision of Ezekiel. God asked Ezekiel “Will these bones live?” Ezekiel replied, “Surely Lord, you know.” God called Ezekiel to prophesy and preach to the bones and the mighty Wind of God, the Holy Spirit, drew the bones together into a mighty company of witnesses and servants of God for the world. So it should be daily for each one of God’s mighty men. Prophesy and preach and serve in the midst of the Kingdom of God for the Kingdom of God is in the midst and middle of you.

PRAYER CONCERNS (share your needs and others in the comment section so that God’s Mighty Men can join prayer forces as intercessors of faith, hope and love)

* For the people of Benghazi and Libya whose desire for freedom from Ghadafi has led to
“cease-fire” warfare while the U.N. has declared a no-fly zone meant for a prelude to peace
but could be seen as the prelude to U.N. nations intervening in this civil war
* We continue to bear in mind the people of Japan still suffering the ravages of disaster of
earthquake, flood and nuclear contamination amidst the rumblings of another earthquake
* Preparation for the holiest of seasons and the readiness to celebrate the Key to the kingdom
leading to eternal life
* For those in Haiti still struggling to put their lives together and for those who are assisting
them
* For the cessation of violence in Mexico and God’s banner of love and protection over all the
people
* For all our troops stationed here and abroad defending the right of people to be free; especially
throughout the Middle East where the conflict is political and military but the solution remains
spiritual
* For the resolution of unrest in the Middle East with Israel, Iraq, Iran, Pakistan,
Afghanistan, in the Far East with North Korea and South Korea and now across North Africa
from Egypt to Libya to Bahrain
* For Mission Waco and the people of Cyprus

PRAYER CELEBRATIONS (where we see Him at work in the world):

* For health and healing throughout my family; especially Lisa, Michael, Mack, Gayle and now
myself facing surgery in eight days
* For a day of worship, praise and service

ABIDING IN HIS PRESENCE THROUGH PRAYER:

O Lord, it is with great anticipation that these mighty men of Yours awake to see more of Your Kingdom in which You have called them to dwell. As You have made it possible for Your Kingdom to dwell in them may it also become a joyful reality for all those whom they will serve with faith, hope and love as did Your Son, our Savior, in whose name we live, pray and serve forever. AMEN.

March 27, 2011

HIS WORD FOR TODAY:

Luke 17.19

“Then He said to him, ‘Rise and go; your faith has made you well.’”

REFLECTING IN HIS WORD:

(Journey to the Cross, Day 20)

One good thing about this journey to Jerusalem is that it is a work in progress. God’s mighty men do not journey because they have reached their completion and they are seeking praises for the work that has been done. They are journeying toward the goal which is to live as Jesus lived even if it means going all the way to the cross. They journey by faith believing that trusting in Him will be sufficient to meet all their needs of body, mind and spirit. With each step they will uncover more of the past that kept them from grasping freedom more quickly. But, with each step they will discover more of the freedom that will assist them in liberating others with the truth of Jesus Christ. That freedom is offered to everyone but not everyone knows it or believes it truly can be theirs. God’s mighty men are the witnesses of that freedom which the healing of Jesus brings. It is freedom from the captivity of sin. It is the freedom from worry that our aching, weary and limited bodies are actually barriers to being able to live in the Kingdom of God on earth. Yes, we can see the unlimited life of the Kingdom dancing in our imagination but we cannot see it on earth. But, this is what happens as we recognize the healing which Jesus gives to our lives. When the ten lepers were blessed with healing only one took the time to return to Jesus to say thank you. But, we must recognize who this man was. He was a Samaritan, a foreigner to Jews and an outcast among outcasts. Yet, Jesus opened the eyes of the disciples to see that even outcasts are welcome into the Kingdom of God by faith. It was faith that made the man well. If outsiders can believe and receive the blessing of God then how much more should those who are not outsiders rejoice. But, did they? Do we?

As God’s mighty men continue their journey to Jerusalem they will meet all of God’s people. They all have been saved but not all of them recognize it. How great will the day be when the word gets out that faith in Jesus Christ restores His people to family, friends, community and to God. Preach the word and share the good news with everyone Jesus has already declared spiritually well. When they declare it as well, then the truth shall truly set them free to be all that God intended for them to be.

PRAYER CONCERNS (share your needs and others in the comment section so that God’s Mighty Men can join prayer forces as intercessors of faith, hope and love)

* For those who will lead God’s people in worship, praise and service this weekend; including
the ACF Men’s Retreat
* For the people of Benghazi and Libya whose desire for freedom from Ghadafi has led to
“cease-fire” warfare while the U.N. has declared a no-fly zone meant for a prelude to peace
but could be seen as the prelude to U.N. nations intervening in this civil war
* We continue to bear in mind the people of Japan still suffering the ravages of disaster of
earthquake, flood and nuclear contamination
* Preparation for the holiest of seasons and the readiness to celebrate the Key to the kingdom
leading to eternal life
* For those in Haiti still struggling to put their lives together and for those who are assisting
them
* For the cessation of violence in Mexico and God’s banner of love and protection over all the
people
* For all our troops stationed here and abroad defending the right of people to be free; especially
throughout the Middle East where the conflict is political and military but the solution remains
spiritual
* For the resolution of unrest in the Middle East with Israel, Iraq, Iran, Pakistan,
Afghanistan, in the Far East with North Korea and South Korea and now across North Africa
from Egypt to Libya to Bahrain
* For Mission Waco and the people of Cuba

PRAYER CELEBRATIONS (where we see Him at work in the world):

* For health and healing throughout my family; especially Lisa, Michael, Mack, Gayle and now
myself facing surgery in eight days
* For a day of worship, praise and service

ABIDING IN HIS PRESENCE THROUGH PRAYER:

O Lord, we give thanks for the Word which has made us well. The Word is Your Son, Jesus Christ who has spoken mercy over us. We return to You today and praise the Work this Word has done. May the Word live in us and ministry through us to awaken others to the truth of their healing as well in His Holy Name. AMEN.

March 26, 2011

“The Law and the Prophets were proclaimed until John. Since that time, the good news of
the Kingdom of God is being preached, and everyone is forcing his way into it.”

REFLECTING IN HIS WORD:

(Journey to the Cross, Day 19)

We all love our space. Personal space varies from person to person. Some have feet between them and the next person and others seem to melt into the the next person. The average personal space is about eighteen inches. Yet, when it comes to something of value to stand in line for everyone seems to join the crowd and try to wriggle their way in to get ahead. In the days of Jesus there were two distinct groups standing in line to get into the Kingdom of God. They were both on their way to Jerusalem marching in line. One was orderly and single file; the other looked more like a school of fish following a feeding frenzy. One was bound by legalisms and profound understanding, or interpretations, of God’s Word. One was clammering and shifting and moving with a newfound freedom never before experienced in God’s Word. Jesus declared that they were both “forcing their way into the Kingdom.” However, one was forcing their way in like a door-to-door salesman trying every trick in the book to gain an advantage, get entry and be successful. If every trick in the book didn’t work then they were rewrite the book. The other was leaping and jumping and praising God. Seizing any opportunity to get a key to the kingdom they prayed, pleaded and prodded their way to get close to Jesus who offered the keys to the kingdom freely. One feared being left out because they “deserved” and were entitled to a place in Heaven through their rigorous spiritualism. The other couldn’t wait to get in because they didn’t deserve it but were being offered the chance of a lifetime- an eternal lifetime and they wanted it more than anything else in the world.

Of course, in the picture presented by the gospel writers, the one group consisted of Pharisees, Scribes and teachers of the Law. They were the righteous entrepreneurs of faith. They had a spirit and a heart as cold as steel with a look that would cut right through anyone less than themselves to expose the sin that kept them from being able to walk right into their Kingdom of God. The other group consisted of the lame, the sick, the poor, the outcast, the prostitute and tax collector and anyone else who did not fit into the “one” group. They only knew the promise of God’s righteousness and clung to it with the hope and expectation that one day they would find favor with God. They waited and prayed for the day to come when they would receive the blessing of God’s word which welcomed them in where so many times they have been turned away. In Jesus they found a look that certainly cut right through them and exposed their sin. But, He did not leave them bleeding and dying to return to the dust from which they came. He did not simply kick that dust off His feet and continue on. He paused and gathered up that dust and turned it into a healing balm so that each one made well could join with Him in the journey to Jerusalem to celebrate God’s coming into the world in glory and grace.

As God’s mighty men, we, too, are marching to Jerusalem. We are like sheep dependent on the Good Shepherd. We are a people who flock to Jesus and mill around Him waiting for more of His goodness, mercy and grace. He leads us to the green pastures and still waters which are found at the foot of the throne of God. We force our way in not so that we can be first but so that we will not be left out. We understand the window of opportunity granted by God’s love and extended to all those who know that without Him there is no hope of gaining entrance. But, we must beware that we do not find ourselves falling in line, praising our own righteousness and claiming to be experts of the “way, truth and life” in our journey of faith. We must not be like students in a lunch line granting favors to those we deem worthy and let them cut in while pushing others to the rear to wait and see if there is enough left when they finally arrive. When we look at the two groups entering Jerusalem, we will see them in their distinctive posture. One will be single file along the walls as if they themselves are a part of the whole structure declaring defeat. We will see the other lifting Jesus up with loud hosannas and palms literally outstretched declaring victory. When we see them at the cross, we will see the same except the words will be changed. But, all is not lost. The Shepherd will return to gather His sheep together again and take them to be where the pastures are always green and the waters are always still; where there will be no need to force their way into the Kingdom because they will already be there.

PRAYER CONCERNS (share your needs and others in the comment section so that God’s Mighty Men can join prayer forces as intercessors of faith, hope and love)

* For those who will lead God’s people in worship, praise and service this weekend; including
the ACF Men’s Retreat
* For the people of Benghazi and Libya whose desire for freedom from Ghadafi has led to
“cease-fire” warfare while the U.N. has declared a no-fly zone meant for a prelude to peace
but could be seen as the prelude to U.N. nations intervening in this civil war
* We continue to bear in mind the Pacific Ocean nations impacted by the massive 9.0
earthquake in Japan with a death toll 9,090 with nearly 13,300 still listed as missing (half of
those presumed dead) and a continuing nuclear disaster polluting food, water and air and 3
strong quakes reported in the vicinity of the epicenter of the coast of Japan
* Preparation for the holiest of seasons and the readiness to celebrate the Key to the kingdom
leading to eternal life
* For the stress that is now overwhelming schools and school districts across the country to
become productive and inspiring for solutions to make teaching young people more successful
* For wisdom among all leadership that Jubilee become the motivating desire- that all should be
free from burdens
* For those in Haiti still struggling to put their lives together and for those who are assisting
them
* For the cessation of violence in Mexico and God’s banner of love and protection over all the
people
* For all our troops stationed here and abroad defending the right of people to be free; especially
throughout the Middle East where the conflict is political and military but the solution remains
spiritual
* For the resolution of unrest in the Middle East with Israel, Iraq, Iran, Pakistan,
Afghanistan, in the Far East with North Korea and South Korea and now across North Africa
from Egypt to Libya to Bahrain
* For Mission Waco and the people of Croatia

PRAYER CELEBRATIONS (where we see Him at work in the world):

* For health and healing throughout my family; especially Lisa, Michael, Mack, Gayle and now
myself facing surgery in eight days
* For a day of success in helping students buy into their own academic goals

ABIDING IN HIS PRESENCE THROUGH PRAYER:

O Lord, open wide the door and let Your people in who call upon You in the name of the Lord. AMEN.

March 25, 2011

HIS WORD FOR TODAY:

Luke 15.31

“‘My son,’ the father said, ‘you are always with me, and everything I have is yours. But we
had to celebrate and be glad, because this brother of yours was dead and is alive again; he
was lost and is found .’”

REFLECTING IN HIS WORD:

(Journey to the Cross, Day 17)

We have all had those moments where after leaving the house and driving for several miles panicked wondering if a light had been turned off, the garage door closed or the thermostat had been lowered. Similarly, when we have been packing for a journey, arrive and then start to unpack cannot immediately find something we were sure we had packed. Not finding it, we purchase its replacement only to find upon our return the lost item. There is relief, and sometimes a bit of consternation, when the lost item is found. We are glad for the sense of wholeness again that what was lost was found. We are caught in confusion trying to figure out how something that was obviously there was invisible to our eyes only to appear in a common place later. For God’s mighty men, the journey of faith is a time of discovery and recovery. In Luke’s gospel, our chapter 15, there was an entire section dedicated to things that were lost and the strategies and expectations for finding them: the lost sheep, the lost coin and the lost son. In each a diligent effort is exposed to find what was lost and a celebration is offered when it is found. It is in the story of the lost son that we see the greatest tragedy however. The son who is lost is trying to find something- himself. His journey is one of pride and arrogance which concludes with humility. He goes to great lengths trying to find out who he was only to lose himself in the process. Yet, by the seeds of faith planted in him by his father which begin to sprout when all else was lost, he finds himself and is restored to his rightful place. But, that is not the end of the story because there is another brother who is lost but does not recognize it. By the end of the story it is unclear as to whether he recognizes his lostness at all. He is still at home safe and secure. He has his job and his father’s love. By all appearances he is living the life of prosperity and peace. But, he is still lost. He is lost to his brother because of his refusal to accept him back. He is lost because of judgmental spirit which sees only the past and not the overcoming of the past. He is lost because he cannot share in his father’s joy. He is lost because true love’s seed is not yet born in him. But the end of the story of the lost son (known as the prodigal) is only the beginning of the journey for his brother. As God’s mighty men, we must remain keenly aware of where we are in relationship to God, to ourselves and to others. We cannot afford to let arrogance and pride and self-satisfaction become roadblocks in the journey of faith. If we do then we, too, will become lost. We are not lost to the Father because He sees us at all times. But, we could be far off the beaten path because we forget to celebrate what was found in Jesus Christ- new life that is eternal and abundant. Check your baggage for the attitudes you have packed, your expectations and intentions for the road ahead, and make sure you are ready. And if you get lost look inside for the truth which someone who loves you has planted inside your heart, mind and soul to get your directions for the way home to God.

PRAYER CONCERNS (share your needs and others in the comment section so that God’s Mighty Men can join prayer forces as intercessors of faith, hope and love)

* For those who will lead God’s people in worship, praise and service this weekend; including
the ACF Men’s Retreat
* For the people of Benghazi and Libya whose desire for freedom from Ghadafi has led to
“cease-fire” warfare while the U.N. has declared a no-fly zone meant for a prelude to peace
but could be seen as the prelude to U.N. nations intervening in this civil war
* We continue to bear in mind the Pacific Ocean nations impacted by the massive 9.0
earthquake in Japan with a death toll 9,090 with nearly 13,300 still listed as missing (half of
those presumed dead) and a continuing nuclear disaster polluting food, water and air and 3
strong quakes reported in the vicinity of the epicenter of the coast of Japan
* Preparation for the holiest of seasons and the readiness to celebrate the Key to the kingdom
leading to eternal life
* For the stress that is now overwhelming schools and school districts across the country to
become productive and inspiring for solutions to make teaching young people more successful
* For wisdom among all leadership that Jubilee become the motivating desire- that all should be
free from burdens
* For those in Haiti still struggling to put their lives together and for those who are assisting
them
* For the cessation of violence in Mexico and God’s banner of love and protection over all the
people
* For all our troops stationed here and abroad defending the right of people to be free; especially
throughout the Middle East where the conflict is political and military but the solution remains
spiritual
* For the resolution of unrest in the Middle East with Israel, Iraq, Iran, Pakistan,
Afghanistan, in the Far East with North Korea and South Korea and now across North Africa
from Egypt to Libya to Bahrain
* For Mission Waco and the people of Cote d’lvoire

PRAYER CELEBRATIONS (where we see Him at work in the world):

* For health and healing throughout my family; especially Lisa, Michael, Mack, Gayle and now
myself facing surgery in eight days
* For the visit and support of a good friend

ABIDING IN HIS PRESENCE THROUGH PRAYER:

O Lord, these mighty men do celebrate that moment when lost became found for them. May the memory become the message of hope for others who themselves are in the process of being found. May the light of Christ help guide them safely home having overcome their past with a glorious future. AMEN.

March 24, 2011

HIS WORD FOR TODAY:

Luke 14.25

“Large crowds were traveling with Jesus and turning to them He said, ‘If anyone comes with
me and does not hate his father and mother, wife and children, his brothers and sisters- yes,
even his own life- he cannot be my disciple.’”

REFLECTING IN HIS WORD:

(Journey to the Cross, Day 16)

Wow, did Jesus really say that? Did the One who declared that we should love God and others as we would love ourselves and desire to be loved ourselves actually say, “If you do not hate all of these you cannot be my disciple”? At first it would not make sense. When love’s greatest promoter stops in the middle of the road that leads to the greatest expression of love the world will ever know- the cross, and says “be a hater” the crowd must have thinned in a hurry. And in fact, it did. There were many who were glad to be in the vicinity of Jesus to see and hear how He turned the Pharisees and teachers of the law on their ear. They were excited to see the miracles and hope that one of them might fall on their life, too. But, to be a disciple was just about walking in the presence of greatness or receiving a miracle or even to perform one (and others think what a good person they had become.) Being a disciple meant that nothing in life was greater or more important that obeying God’s will and doing what was right for those whose needs for God were great. Jesus did not literally mean that His mighty men (and women) should be out of relationship with people in their families or their friends. But, they could not love any of them more than they loved God. Equally, they could not let their relationships, allegiances and alliances with people compromise their walk of faith. When the time to make the supreme sacrifice, as Jesus would do in proof on the cross, His love for people was so great He would deny (hate) those relationships as they called to Him to not go further and press more diligently to the end (which was the true beginning). The world may see it as hate and disrespect but in the eyes of the kingdom is was an act of supreme love because it opened the door to the big picture of eternity with God. Yes, we participate with Christ in the earthly side of the Kingdom as we continue our journey of faith to Jerusalem ready to bear our own cross. But, earth is not Heaven. We should desire the full Kingdom, not just a part. We should desire it not in part for a few but in whole for all. It does mean that there will be the need to deny our family, friends and neighbors, our human cravings and desires of the flesh, our fears and wonderings about the unknown around the corners of life’s journey. But, what will be received in return cannot be measured by the human mind or anything in our earthly history. We cannot fathom the depth of God’s glory and grace as long as we are bound to the world’s definition of love. As God’s mighty men we cannot “out love” God, we cannot truly love without God and we can love nothing more than God. But, when we are in God’s love and God’s love is in us to the extreme there can be nothing greater in life on earth as it is in Heaven.

PRAYER CONCERNS (share your needs and others in the comment section so that God’s Mighty Men can join prayer forces as intercessors of faith, hope and love)

* For the people of Benghazi whose desire for freedom from Ghadafi has led to “cease-fire”
warfare while the U.N. has declared a no-fly zone meant for a prelude to peace but could be
seen as the prelude to U.N. nations intervening in this civil war
* We continue to bear in mind the Pacific Ocean nations impacted by the massive 9.0
earthquake in Japan with a death toll 9,090 with nearly 13,300 still listed as missing (half of
those presumed dead) and a continuing nuclear disaster polluting food, water and air and 3
strong quakes reported in the vicinity of the epicenter of the coast of Japan
* Preparation for the holiest of seasons and the readiness to celebrate the Key to the kingdom
leading to eternal life
* For the stress that is now overwhelming schools and school districts across the country to
become productive and inspiring for solutions to make teaching young people more successful
* For wisdom among all leadership that Jubilee become the motivating desire- that all should be
free from burdens
* For those in Haiti still struggling to put their lives together and for those who are assisting
them
* For the cessation of violence in Mexico and God’s banner of love and protection over all the
people
* For all our troops stationed here and abroad defending the right of people to be free; especially
throughout the Middle East where the conflict is political and military but the solution remains
spiritual
* For the resolution of unrest in the Middle East with Israel, Iraq, Iran, Pakistan,
Afghanistan, in the Far East with North Korea and South Korea and now across North Africa
from Egypt to Libya to Bahrain
* For Mission Waco and the people of the Costa Rica

PRAYER CELEBRATIONS (where we see Him at work in the world):

* For health and healing throughout my family; especially Lisa, Michael, Mack, Gayle and now
myself facing surgery in ten days
* For sleeping straight through the night

ABIDING IN HIS PRESENCE THROUGH PRAYER:

O Lord, we pray that our love for You can be so great that nothing else matters more than loving others so much we would do anything so they can know Your love for them. AMEN.

March 23, 2011

“Look, your house (Jerusalem) is left to you desolate. I tell you, you will not see Me again
until you say, ‘Blessed is He who comes in the name of the Lord.’”

REFLECTING IN HIS WORD:

(Journey to the Cross, Day 15)

All along the journey of faith there will be windows and doors of opportunity open to you. You will not know whether they are only wide open, partially open or barely open. It is much like the parable of the soils if you stop to think about it. There will be people who are wide open to the word of faith you will bear witness to. They may even be leaning out the window to see and hear more clearly what you say and do in the name of Jesus. Some will not want to give the appearance of paying attention for fear of what someone might say or else a challenge in life has opened up this opportunity unintentionally. The mighty man of God must seize the opportunity before it closes as the burden settles back in and hope left the room which could have well created the opening in the first place. There are those who hide far back in the shadows so that the light of day which creeps in the crack will not find them. Regardless they are there and the word may only have a limited benefit. But, like a seed planted by the wind in the smallest crack of a mighty rock, growth can widen the gap and create further opportunities for love to make its impact in their life. As God’s mighty men, we cannot debate the value of the need by the size of the opportunity. We must take hold of the chance to show others the glory of God through Jesus Christ and announce His saving grace for their forgiveness and freedom. Not everyone may be willing to receive it at first and some not at all. This is not the worry or concern of the mighty man of God. His charge is to go out and proclaim the truth of God’s eternal love and proclaim “Blessed is He who comes in the Name of the Lord.” Jesus recognized the time in His life when the door was opening for Him to enter into Jerusalem so that we might receive and enjoy the benefit of salvation. His hope and prayer is that we would follow after Him, join in His joy, receive the fullness of what He promised and share it with others. Through the faithfulness of God’s mighty men many more will come to know that hope-filled journey, too, as they are aware of the openings in the lives of family, friends and strangers and respond gladly.

PRAYER CONCERNS (share your needs and others in the comment section so that God’s Mighty Men can join prayer forces as intercessors of faith, hope and love)

* For the people of Benghazi whose desire for freedom from Ghadafi has led to “cease-fire”
warfare while the U.N. has declared a no-fly zone meant for a prelude to peace but could be
seen as the prelude to U.N. nations intervening in this civil war
* We continue to bear in mind the Pacific Ocean nations impacted by the massive 9.0
earthquake in Japan with a death toll 9,090 with nearly 13,300 still listed as missing (half of
those presumed dead) and a continuing nuclear disaster polluting food, water and air and 3
strong quakes reported in the vicinity of the epicenter of the coast of Japan
* Preparation for the holiest of seasons and the readiness to celebrate the Key to the kingdom
leading to eternal life
* For the stress that is now overwhelming schools and school districts across the country to
become productive and inspiring for solutions to make teaching young people more successful
* For wisdom among all leadership that Jubilee become the motivating desire- that all should be
free from burdens
* For those in Haiti still struggling to put their lives together and for those who are assisting
them
* For the cessation of violence in Mexico and God’s banner of love and protection over all the
people
* For all our troops stationed here and abroad defending the right of people to be free; especially
throughout the Middle East where the conflict is political and military but the solution remains
spiritual
* For the resolution of unrest in the Middle East with Israel, Iraq, Iran, Pakistan,
Afghanistan, in the Far East with North Korea and South Korea and now across North Africa
from Egypt to Libya to Bahrain
* For Mission Waco and the people of the Cook Islands

PRAYER CELEBRATIONS (where we see Him at work in the world):

* For health and healing throughout my family; especially Lisa, Michael, Mack, Gayle and now
myself facing surgery in two weeks
* For word of my daughter’s successful mission trip

ABIDING IN HIS PRESENCE THROUGH PRAYER:

O Lord, may the eyes and ears of these mighty men be open to the opportunities which life will afford them to serve You well today. Bless the seeds of the gospel they will plant today in the lives of those in need. AMEN.

March 22, 2011

“When He said this, all His opponents were humiliated, but the people were delighted with
all the wonderful things He was doing.”

REFLECTING IN HIS WORD:

(Journey to the Cross, Day 14)

Jesus’ ministry was a living enactment of the Jubilee prophecy (4.1-20). The blind, deaf, lame and lost were reconciled with God and the word of liberation was proclaimed. The call to self-sacrifice was extended to those who would follow Him so that others might have the opportunity to know the good news as well and be restored to family and community. He was the doer of wonderful things. He was also unafraid of calling God’s people into accountability. Healing did not come until there was a confession of faith believing that Jesus was the Christ of God. There was no liberation until the ties of bondage were undone. Leadership could not truly lead unless they themselves became followers and practitioners of the Way, the Truth and the Life. What was put into motion in one area of life should become the rubric for how one lives all areas of their lives. There was no room for hypocrisy in the lives of those who truly confessed faith in God. Jesus was their accountability partner whether they liked it or not. He remains so today with faith, hope and love. But, He does no less than speak the truth and challenge each of us to be not only authentic in our discipleship but consistent. Such is the story we read today when Jesus stopped on His way to Jerusalem to worship in a community on the Sabbath. A woman who had been crippled for eighteen years was healed. Her life was literally straightened out. Yet, the Pharisees could not see the opportunity to praise God for the miracle of healing and restoration. Their eyes were fixed on His breaking their understanding of the Sabbath law that “no work should be done on the Sabbath.” Blinded by their own need to control they could not see that God was in control in spite of their efforts.

On our journey to Jerusalem this year, each of God’s mighty men must walk in accountability with Christ. Their confessions and professions will be in harmony. Their praise of God will be perfected as they blend their walk and talk, work and word, into unity with the One who showed that the Sabbath was made for man and not vice versa. We must be mindful that as we move forward we lead others in praising God instead of justifying our own interpretation of faithfulness. It is not only do what is good but more importantly- be what is good. Delight in the wonderful things He is doing in your life and in the world today and every day.

PRAYER CONCERNS (share your needs and others in the comment section so that God’s Mighty Men can join prayer forces as intercessors of faith, hope and love)

* For freedom from fear in Japan as strong quakes continue near the epicenter
* For the people of Benghazi whose desire for freedom from Ghadafi has led to “cease-fire”
warfare while the U.N. has declared a no-fly zone meant for a prelude to peace but could be
seen as the prelude to U.N. nations intervening in this civil war
* We continue to bear in mind the Pacific Ocean nations impacted by the massive 9.0
earthquake in Japan with a death toll 9,090 with nearly 13,300 still listed as missing (half of
those presumed dead) and a continuing nuclear disaster polluting food, water and air and 3
strong quakes reported in the vicinity of the epicenter of the coast of Japan
* Preparation for the holiest of seasons and the readiness to celebrate the Key to the kingdom
leading to eternal life
* For the stress that is now overwhelming schools and school districts across the country to
become productive and inspiring for solutions to make teaching young people more successful
* For wisdom among all leadership that Jubilee become the motivating desire- that all should be
free from burdens
* For those in Haiti still struggling to put their lives together and for those who are assisting
them
* For the cessation of violence in Mexico and God’s banner of love and protection over all the
people
* For all our troops stationed here and abroad defending the right of people to be free; especially
throughout the Middle East where the conflict is political and military but the solution remains
spiritual
* For the resolution of unrest in the Middle East with Israel, Iraq, Iran, Pakistan,
Afghanistan, in the Far East with North Korea and South Korea and now across North Africa
from Egypt to Libya to Bahrain
* For Mission Waco and the people of the Republic of the Congo

PRAYER CELEBRATIONS (where we see Him at work in the world):

* For health and healing throughout my family; especially Lisa, Michael, Mack, Sarah and now
myself facing surgery in two weeks
* For God’s foreplanning to meet our needs before we knew we would have them

ABIDING IN HIS PRESENCE THROUGH PRAYER:

O Lord, with our eyes seeking the horizon for what has been promised let our vision not be obscured by doing what is right and good in the world around us first. May the walk of these mighty men hold the world accountable and one another to the truth which is best known in Jesus Christ our Lord. AMEN.